SOCIAL CAPITAL IN MANAGING COMMUNITY PLANTATION FOREST: A CASE STUDY AT KPH BOALEMO, GORONTALO PROVINCE

SOCIAL CAPITAL IN MANAGING COMMUNITY PLANTATION FOREST: A CASE STUDY AT KPH BOALEMO, GORONTALO PROVINCE. Community Plantation Forest (HTR) is one among alternatives expected to fulfil the needs of timber. Limited capital, which is simply known as financial capital, is considered as the main problem in HTR development. However, there is also other capital but less known and understood namely social capital. This study aims to determine the social capital that can be utilized in HTR management. The study was conducted in Rumbia Village, Boalemo District, Gorontalo Province. The data collected were analyzed using a descriptive qualitative method in three steps: data reduction, data display and verification. In this study, the social capital is discussed in its dimensions of trust, norm, and network, which can improve the efficiency of society by facilitating coordinated action. Results of the study show that strengthening social capital in its dimension of trust, norm, and the network would encourage independence of both the farmers and forest farmer groups in HTR management. If the social capital does not work properly, the gap among farmers could occur and even becomes a barrier or limits in the involvement of members of the farmer group in the management of HTR. The farmers had a high trust for forestry extension workers. It became a dimension of social capital that should be developed further in HTR management to reach optimal benefits from HTR. Besides, the farmers also had high compliance to social norms of traditions, religion, and customary rules. The social capital held by the farmers should be appropriately addressed by the local and central government to develop successful HTR management.